I was invited to a conference organised by a local charity group. The theme was Consent and Learning Difficulties. Throughout the discussion it appeared that a lot of young people with learning disabilities struggled to understand the stage at which it can be said that consent was given.
While they understand their right, as humans, to have relationships, to be happy and have a family if they wish to, it has at times been difficult to make a judgement whether the friend or partner they hang around with has given their consent. The expert panel discussion with the young people was very helpful. Other local organisations who were present including Harrow Mencap offered to support the young people with learning difficulties dealing with this important topic.
